jeffreyjrose, Suikoden II is a good RPG. I would hesitate to call it great, but it's definitely good. If you're looking for a game that has cool graphics, look elsewhere: this game's graphics were outdated even at the time of its release. If you're looking for a features-laden battle system, look elsewhere: most everything here is as simplistic as can be, outside of the occasional shake-up into strategy RPG territory. (There are tons of mini-games and side-quests though.) What you will find here, however, is an epic story of how individuals can change the tide of war between nations, played out with an abundance of betrayals, tragedies, revenge and more. Obviously, you're not going to get extraordinary amounts of character development when your cast numbers well past 100, but that sheer number alone gives you a good sense of how far-reaching this tale is. The feeling of accomplishment and camaraderie as you amass your own mercenary army is practically singular among offline games. While I'm still a bit incredulous to the huge demand and worship for this game, it's still a good game that I could recommend to any fan of RPGs.
I can't believe that at one point my local Circuit City stores couldn't get rid of this game for $10...